Civil Rights … and Wrongs

By Paul Lukas, on March 13th, 2008

New ESPN column today — here’s the link. (If it doesn’t work now, it should work by noon-ish eastern.)

Meanwhile: As you may recall, one of the most puzzling uni junctures of last year came when the Cardinals and Indians played in the inaugural Civil Rights Game, and wore some astonishingly uninspired uniforms for the occasion. I was never able to get a straight answer out of MLB regarding the uni designs (refresher course here), and I ultimately ended up assuming that the uniforms were either a last-minute stopgap move that had hurriedly been thrown together or else a failed experiment. Either way, I was certain they’d go a different route for this year’s installment of the game, which will feature the Mets and White Sox.

Shows what I know. A source who prefers to remain anonymous informs me that the Mets will be wearing this. The cream-colored background tone is a nice touch, but c’mon — are they really gonna stick with this template year after year? Unbelievable.

• From Tom Cotter: “According to this page, “A natural leather ball with white end stripes replaced the white ball with black stripes for night games” in 1956.

• From Tim Bullis: “If you scroll down to the middle of this page, you’ll find the following explanation:

The white football debuted in the NFL on the evening of Sept. 16, 1950. This was the much-anticipated NFL debut of the Cleveland Browns, the upstart newcomers and former champs of the recently absorbed/defunct AAFC, who would open the regular season by in expectantly whipping the incumbent NFL champion Philadelphia Eagles at Municipal Stadium in Philadelphia. It is considered one of the landmark games in NFL history, and the old white ball was a part of it. The white ball was adopted for night games primarily because it could be seen far better than the conventional brown variety under the poor stadium lighting of that era.

The league ordered the Browns to set aside their traditional white leather helmets for this historic game because they looked too similar too the white football being used. It was feared that an Eagle player diving for what appeared to be a loose ball might have instead found a head attached to it. That evening the Browns wore new burnt orange leather helmets. In 1952 the team switched to Riddell burnt orange plastic helmets with a single white center stripe. In addition to the Browns, the league required the other NFL teams with white or silver helmets (Cardinals, Lions and Colts) to use darker shaded helmets when they played at night. This practice of wearing dark helmets only for night games continued through the end of the 1955 season.

In 1956 the visiting teams were required to wear white uniforms to better distinguish themselves from their opponents for the rapidly increasing television audiences who, at that time, were limited to black and white picture tubes technology. Recognizing that the white uniforms would have given the visiting team an unfair opportunity to camouflage the white ball on running plays the league replaced the white “night” ball with a brown ball with a white circular stripe on each end prior to the start of the 1956 season. The retirement of the white ball eliminated the need for the previously mentioned teams to wear a special darker helmet for night games.

The players complained that the painted on white stripes made the too ball slippery but it was retained until the end of the 1976 season. As stadium lighting improved to meet the needs of color television, the white striped “night” ball was permanently replaced by the conventional all brown ball just prior to the 1977 season.

• Several people noted that the striped ball is still used in the CFL, and that the Arena League uses its own high-visibility ball. And then there’s the XFL ball. Best of all, Don Montgomery alerted me to the existence of the excellent Game Balls site, which includes this page.

But why was a striped ball used in Super Bowl VIII? Alan Gilbert says, “I have the actual CBS broadcast of SB VIII. It was overcast and drizzly, so Rice Stadium had the lights on. They went with the striped ball for that reason and it is mentioned in the broadcast.” But the real answer is lurking in this article (another Don Montgomery find): “In 1973, including that season’s Super Bowl, [the NFL] used balls with white stripes.”

So there you go. Thanks to everyone who contributed — I learned a lot on this one.

Seattle Reminder: By the time most of you read this, I’ll be on my way to Seattle. Remember, Uni Watch party tomorrow, 7:30pm, at the Pyramid Alehouse.

Uni Watch News Ticker: “A person with a lot of time on his hands replaced the video from the current Air Jordan commercial with old footage of some guy named Matt Bellner,” writes Lance Storm. “Great-looking uniform shots in the 60-second clip.” Indeed, this is really great — highly receommended viewing. ”¦ Great old Oklahoma State football pics here and here. In that last shot, No. 70 is Buddy Ryan (nice find by Clint Spaulding). ”¦ Some cool eBay stuff here, here, and here (courtesy of David Allen). ”¦ Several people noticed the tarheel logo on the shorts in this photo. Shouldn’t the heel be black with the rest of the foot being white? ”¦ Key passage in this story: “After sitting down, Lerner perched his feet on the table’s edge, inches away from an updated white model similar to the one the Browns wore in 1948, and could break out for a future special occasion” (good find by Nick Funaro). ”¦ Here’s the most relevant uni number of the week (with thanks to Eric Trager). ”¦ Reprinted from yesterday’s comments: Why is the football field called a gridiron? Because it used to be, literally, a grid. ”¦ Corey Zoldan notes that if Mets players Ryan Church and John Maine got into a dugout scrap and had to be broken apart, this would be a prime example of a separation between Church and state. ”¦ Speaking of the Mets, Luis Castillo was victimized by the old bubble-gum prank yesterday. ”¦ Lots of cool Kansas baseball pics here. How cool are those caps! (With thanks to Gregory Johnson.) ”¦ Nice video clip here about the new Hawaii football uniforms (with thanks to Tim Snyder). ”¦ The Giants haven’t yet worn the Cool-Flow helmets. But Joaquin Jang reports that Aaron Rowland is wearing the newfangled lid in a promotional campaign. ” Fortunately, he and the other Giants have been wearing the traditional helmets in spring training, so hopefully the ad is just a one-time thing,” writes Joaquin. ”¦ Billy Duss, who’s an intern at the Minnesota State Capitol, reports that the Twins will wear a Minnesota sesquicentennial sleeve patch on May 9th-12th. “There will also be other festivities, including an old-timers game where, from what I have heard, the teams will be wearing 1850s-era uniforms,” he writes. ”¦ Do red soccer jerseys equal more goals? That’s what it says here (with thanks to Trevor Williams). ”¦ Those of you who know I love baseball sweaters will understand why I like this photo of the 1909 St. Louis Browns (nice find by Bruce Menard). ”¦ According to Mike Nachreiner, Pepperdine’s new Under Armour baseball pants have slits cut above the knee. What’s that all about? ”¦ “I happened to pick up the 1975 Oklahoma City 89ers card set,” writes Morris Levin. “Check out the jerseys!” ”¦ Note the non-matching University of Richmond helmets in this 1970s photo (good catch by Daniel Stevens). ”¦ “With MLS season just around the corner, a friend of mine and I were talking about the original MLS teams and jerseys, and WOW, take a look at some of these beauties,” writes Adam Taylor. “Sometimes I forget how crazy the nineties could be.” ”¦ Check out the uni numbers on the Florida practice shirts. ”¦ Remember the old bit about wearing clean underwear in case you’re hit by a car? The basebll equivalent would be to wear stirrups in case you’re hit by a foul ball. That’s Stump Merrill, who was clonked in the noggin yesterday (as spotted by John Brazil). ”¦ David Sonny came across some very old hockey gloves. He also adds: “I have heard the new Cincinnati Bearcats football uniforms are pretty freaking bad. Cat claw scratches down the legs, bearcat eyes above the nameplate — cartoon-ish and hip hop-ish.” Ugh. … If you’ve been waiting for your membership card, it went out yesterday. My apologies for the delay.

194 comments to Civil Rights … and Wrongs

At least those civil rights unis aren’t anything like the spring training unis. Lets just all be thankfull

Mark MihaIik|
March 13, 2008 at 8:09 am |

Nice ESPN column today, Paul. And thanks for looking into that Under Armour catcher’s gear thing… I’m sure we’ll see a chest protector with a much flashier accents and a bigger UA logo when this “seasonal partnership” expires.

Mike|
March 13, 2008 at 8:10 am |

Doesn’t look like the black is going anywhere….but hey, Straw is back!

Rick White in Cedar Park, TX|
March 13, 2008 at 8:13 am |

Remember the old bit about wearing clean underwear in case you’re hit by a car? The basebll equivalent would be to wear stirrups in case you’re hit by a foul ball. That’s Stump Merrill, who was clonked in the noggin yesterday (as spotted by John Brazil).

Oh my God!! Was he wearing his helmet?

Rick White in Cedar Park, TX|
March 13, 2008 at 8:15 am |

[quote comment=”238333″]Doesn’t look like the black is going anywhere….but hey, Straw is back![/quote]

So … what’s he going to train them on? (Snort, snort)

Jason Gomez|
March 13, 2008 at 8:19 am |

Ok, I know people complain about Nikes’ design concepts but you have to admit that Under Armour and Adidas are really starting to take over the ridiculously looking uniform design…although I dont mind Nike designs. Lets start giving Under Armour and Adidas crap! They deserve it.

LI Phil|
March 13, 2008 at 8:19 am |

[quote comment=”238334″]Remember the old bit about wearing clean underwear in case you’re hit by a car? The basebll equivalent would be to wear stirrups in case you’re hit by a foul ball. That’s Stump Merrill, who was clonked in the noggin yesterday (as spotted by John Brazil).

“With MLS season just around the corner, a friend of mine and I were talking about the original MLS teams and jerseys, and WOW, take a look at some of these beauties,” writes Adam Taylor. “Sometimes I forget how crazy the nineties could be.”

Striped socks!

Rick White in Cedar Park, TX|
March 13, 2008 at 8:26 am |

[quote comment=”238340″][quote comment=”238334″]Remember the old bit about wearing clean underwear in case you’re hit by a car? The basebll equivalent would be to wear stirrups in case you’re hit by a foul ball. That’s Stump Merrill, who was clonked in the noggin yesterday (as spotted by John Brazil).

Ahhhh, he was hit in the lip. Hockey goalie masks for all baseball coaches!

By the way … even though the cap stinks, it’s great to see Yogi at spring training with the Yanks. Yogi is my all-time favorite. I got the chance to play him on-stage in a one man show a couple of years ago.

Ben|
March 13, 2008 at 8:38 am |

The Giants haven’t yet worn the Cool-Flow helmets. But Joaquin Jang reports that Aaron Rowland is wearing the newfangled lid in a promotional campaign. ” Fortunately, he and the other Giants have been wearing the traditional helmets in spring training, so hopefully the ad is just a one-time thing

It looks like Rowand i wearing a Cool Flo with double earflaps and chinstrap buttons in that picture. Anyone else?

Ben|
March 13, 2008 at 8:38 am |

The Giants haven’t yet worn the Cool-Flow helmets. But Joaquin Jang reports that Aaron Rowland is wearing the newfangled lid in a promotional campaign. ” Fortunately, he and the other Giants have been wearing the traditional helmets in spring training, so hopefully the ad is just a one-time thing

It looks like Rowand is wearing a Cool Flo with double earflaps and chinstrap buttons in that picture. Anyone else?

Strawberry’s pinky nail looks a little longer than the rest of them, don’t you think?

LETS GO BUCS!

The Ol Goaler|
March 13, 2008 at 8:43 am |

[quote comment=”238344″][quote comment=”238340″][quote comment=”238334″]Remember the old bit about wearing clean underwear in case you’re hit by a car? The basebll equivalent would be to wear stirrups in case you’re hit by a foul ball. That’s Stump Merrill, who was clonked in the noggin yesterday (as spotted by John Brazil).

Ahhhh, he was hit in the lip. Hockey goalie masks for all baseball coaches!

By the way … even though the cap stinks, it’s great to see Yogi at spring training with the Yanks. Yogi is my all-time favorite. I got the chance to play him on-stage in a one man show a couple of years ago.[/quote]
Reminding one and all that the call, “Heads Up!” on a baseball field actually means, “DUCK, BUNKY!!!”

According to the story, Merrill was hit by a throw from the outfield; the “strap and immobilize the head” procedure has become SOP for any head/neck injury.

One of the most enjoyable rituals of spring training is the appearance of former stars; the fifth photo in this slideshow features Cardinals Hall of Famers Lou Brock and Bob Gibson, who are regulars at Spring Training… and check out the real stirrups worn by Brendan “Boog” Ryan in pic #3! (Reason enough to hope he makes the club!)

Kurt Monaco|
March 13, 2008 at 8:43 am |

I was looking through the Kansas baseball gallery, and noticed the Jayhawk in this pic is wearing his stirrups, but no sanitaries (or anything else) underneath them.

I’m in Cleveland for the MAC Men’s Basketball Tournament. The first 0 in the “MAC 2008” logo is a black memorial ribbon. All of the teams are also wearing a black memorial shoulder stripe. Sorry for no pictures, but does anyone know what this is for??

That Columbus Crew uni from the MLS photo is awesome. Those uniforms might be crazy, but at least they’re not as plain and boring as the 2008 MLS unis. Has anyone posted photos of those yet? I can’t find a good gallery of all of them.

Why does no one ever remind you gentlemen that what I think of as the baseball team picture crouch is not a good idea in small, satiny shorts!!

Steven|
March 13, 2008 at 8:51 am |

Those MLS unis are crazy! No wonder DC United won titles 3 out of the first 4 seasons, their unis are classic!

Tony in Erie|
March 13, 2008 at 8:51 am |

Saw this photo in that Daily News reel and wondered if John Vanbiesbrouck is going to sue for copyright infringment soon…these masks are getting out of control LOL

Mark K|
March 13, 2008 at 8:53 am |

I hope they do a better job sewing those Civil Rights Game patches on the actual uniforms.

Justin B|
March 13, 2008 at 8:53 am |

[quote comment=”238359″]I’m in Cleveland for the MAC Men’s Basketball Tournament. The first 0 in the “MAC 2008” logo is a black memorial ribbon. All of the teams are also wearing a black memorial shoulder stripe. Sorry for no pictures, but does anyone know what this is for??

That Columbus Crew uni from the MLS photo is awesome. Those uniforms might be crazy, but at least they’re not as plain and boring as the 2008 MLS unis. Has anyone posted photos of those yet? I can’t find a good gallery of all of them.[/quote]

NIU

War Damn Eagle|
March 13, 2008 at 8:55 am |

Is it any wonder the only uniform that even slightly resembles the original is DC United? Those other jerseys were terrible.

United was smart to have a more classic design. They’ve played around with the road white uniform, but the home black uni is a classic that always stays close to the original (except for that 1999 disaster). Click on “uniform history” to see for yourself.http://www.mlsnet.com/t103/about/

Curt|
March 13, 2008 at 8:56 am |

[quote comment=”238366″][quote comment=”238359″]I’m in Cleveland for the MAC Men’s Basketball Tournament. The first 0 in the “MAC 2008” logo is a black memorial ribbon. All of the teams are also wearing a black memorial shoulder stripe. Sorry for no pictures, but does anyone know what this is for??

That Columbus Crew uni from the MLS photo is awesome. Those uniforms might be crazy, but at least they’re not as plain and boring as the 2008 MLS unis. Has anyone posted photos of those yet? I can’t find a good gallery of all of them.[/quote]

NIU[/quote]

Thanks, that should have been fairly obvious…oops.

Mark K|
March 13, 2008 at 8:58 am |

[quote comment=”238359″]I’m in Cleveland for the MAC Men’s Basketball Tournament. The first 0 in the “MAC 2008” logo is a black memorial ribbon. All of the teams are also wearing a black memorial shoulder stripe. Sorry for no pictures, but does anyone know what this is for??[/quote]

Still with the Impact typeface on the Civil Rights game jerseys, huh? I just want to point out that, in the past 12 months, that typeface has only become more famous as being the default for lolcat pictures. Jeez.

Breezy|
March 13, 2008 at 9:28 am |

Would anyone change their thoughts on purple after seeing this uniform?

B.G.|
March 13, 2008 at 9:31 am |

Just a quick note from yesterday’s commments. Someone mentioned Chuck Taylors being used in a football game–so cool! Even better is that fact that they are celebrating their 100th year! Pop culture columnist Whitney Matheson from USA Today has an article on it.

Mike|
March 13, 2008 at 9:34 am |

[quote comment=”238382″]Would anyone change their thoughts on purple after seeing this uniform?[/quote]

I had no problem with purple before, but will fully, and I mean fully embrace that incarnation.

My Name is not Earl|
March 13, 2008 at 9:36 am |

Well, I’m confused. This SI Cover from December 1973 depicts a Chiefs-Raiders game. No stripes on ball.

Stuby|
March 13, 2008 at 9:42 am |

[quote comment=”238374″]The new pit crew uniforms for Honda F1 are, well, unfortunate.[/quote]
Eww. They look like ball boys at the Aussie Open or something.

[quote comment=”238413″]Not really uni-related, but I stumbled upon this blast from the past while cruising through Western Oklahoma State’s baseball roster. It says he is a Freshman so that would make him….what….34?

[quote comment=”238406″]FYI on Florida’s practice jerseys, every Nike school is wearing those with the same typeface this year. The front has the school name in the backboard.

Frank[/quote]

Basically, all the nike schools have those practice jerseys and they also sell t shirts with the that picture on the front with the schools name.

Jeag|
March 13, 2008 at 10:12 am |

I CAN HAS IMPAKT FONT? KTHX.

Jason Gomez|
March 13, 2008 at 10:13 am |

Someone needs to start a petition to New Era to get rid of the ridiculous striping on those hats, if it werent for those freakin stripes I would be out buying my KC Royals BP hat.

Pretty Boy Paulie|
March 13, 2008 at 10:16 am |

Did anybody hear about this! I read this on Hypebeast.com (sneaker aficionado site)…

“In what would amount to a takeover of epic proportions, Nike has quickly refuted claims of a takeover bid for their fellow sportswear competitors, adidas. A few days ago, spokespeople for Nike quickly refused to comment regarding the news while a Frankfurt trader said its most likely the resurfacing of an old rumor. However adidas stock holders did receive a small boost from the circulating rumors. Myself being far from an anti-trust virtuoso, I don’t even know if something like this would go through.”

Joey Guns|
March 13, 2008 at 10:18 am |

As seen on Darren Rovell’s blog, the Macon Music minor league team has just announced Eliot Spitzer night for June 13th:

[quote comment=”238428″]Someone needs to start a petition to New Era to get rid of the ridiculous striping on those hats, if it werent for those freakin stripes I would be out buying my KC Royals BP hat.[/quote]

[quote comment=”238332″]Nice ESPN column today, Paul. And thanks for looking into that Under Armour catcher’s gear thing… I’m sure we’ll see a chest protector with a much flashier accents and a bigger UA logo when this “seasonal partnership” expires.[/quote]

May be flashier…wont be any bigger (at least at the MLB level) as MLB regulates the size and number of manufacturers logos on Chest Protectors, Leg Guards, and Masks.

The Royals also modified their BP caps. This was missed in the ESPN posting. The Royals are also back to wearing blue belts and shoes.

Rick White in Cedar Park, TX|
March 13, 2008 at 10:49 am |

[quote comment=”238432″][quote comment=”238382″]Would anyone change their thoughts on purple after seeing this uniform?[/quote]

I have NO problem with Purple…I happen to like purple.

I’m trying to look past the mental image of Hulk Hogan in a dress, but its good to see a white woman with some curves (in Borat voice) “Verrry Niiiice!”[/quote]

I agree. Compare her with the bikini photos of Kate Hudson and Eva Longoria. Not that I don’t like Kate and Eva, but, talk about a boyish figure.

Michaels|
March 13, 2008 at 10:51 am |

I’m sure this has been addressed here before, but I don’t always get a chance to read the comments.

Does anyone know why pics from Flickr have been taking so long to open lately? It sometimes takes a few minutes for a picture to open, and Flickr seems to be the only culprit.

lwiedy|
March 13, 2008 at 10:55 am |

[quote comment=”238450″]I’m sure this has been addressed here before, but I don’t always get a chance to read the comments.

Does anyone know why pics from Flickr have been taking so long to open lately? It sometimes takes a few minutes for a picture to open, and Flickr seems to be the only culprit.[/quote]

I’ve noticed that too. What I’ve been doing is waiting until the bars at the bottom reach the end then I hit the stop button at the top and the picture loads.

Greg|
March 13, 2008 at 10:57 am |

The current story arc in the “Funky Winkerbean” comic strip concerns a girls JV basketball game. Look at the uniform for “Westview High” and tell me if that’s one of the more ungainly combos you’ve seen:

Probably because it is difficult to portray the Westview Scapegoats true colors in comic for:

It’s been year’s since I’ve seen that Funky strip but I’ve always wondered what they wore at home vs. road. I think I’d where clear at home with taupe numbers, and the less revealing taupe on the road with clear numbers.

[quote comment=”238438″][quote comment=”238428″]Someone needs to start a petition to New Era to get rid of the ridiculous striping on those hats, if it werent for those freakin stripes I would be out buying my KC Royals BP hat.[/quote]

From Paul’s ESPN column:
“In what may be a first, the Pirates are wearing a spring training sleeve patch commemorating the 40th anniversary of their Florida facility.”

It may be a second. The 1988 Dodgers had a patch for 40 years in Vero Beach. I have a great photo but this post will not go through with links. Anyone know why?

Stuby|
March 13, 2008 at 11:05 am |

[quote comment=”238455″][quote comment=”238438″][quote comment=”238428″]Someone needs to start a petition to New Era to get rid of the ridiculous striping on those hats, if it werent for those freakin stripes I would be out buying my KC Royals BP hat.[/quote]

I don’t care for these caps either, but like the sharpei, someone in the world does.

Furthermore, that same person who likes the sharpei will buy said sharpei and all of it’s accessories.

So to petition the breeder or the pet store would provide us with an avenue to voice our displeasure however with the looks of the dog, more than likely, our pleas would fall upon deaf ears.

If we don’t like that breed, there are more than enough other types for us to prefer and own.

All kidding side, those hats are horrendous and this is UniWatch, so complain away.[/quote]
I thought maybe you were talking about this Sharpay. Sorry, I have young kids so my view of the world is a little warped

Joey Guns|
March 13, 2008 at 11:11 am |

The Washington Capitals game was broadcast on two channels in the Washington area. One carried the regular game broadcast, while the other had a split screen with the regular game coverage on one side and a dedicated camera continuously following Ovechkin on the other. The feature was dubbed OvechKam. ”I don’t think about OvechKam,” Ovechkin said. ”For me it doesn’t matter, OvechKam or different camera.”

Looking at the unis for the Civil Rights game, it makes me think of the generic uniforms they put on players when they were featured in baseball cards that came with some cereals. The cereal makers did not have the rights to use the MLB team logos, so they went with the generics.

But you’re right: the Civil Rights game uniforms could have had a little something more, like maybe a replica of the old Negro League team uniforms that actually look pretty good when teams have used them.

Joey Guns|
March 13, 2008 at 11:36 am |

I just read that baseball players Cameron Maybin and Colby Rasmus have the MLB logo tattooed on their biceps. Interesting.

My Name is not Earl|
March 13, 2008 at 11:39 am |

[quote comment=”238409″][quote comment=”238393″]Well, I’m confused. This SI Cover from December 1973 depicts a Chiefs-Raiders game. No stripes on ball.[/quote]

That’s because it’s a day game[/quote]

Yeah, but the USA Today article linked above seems to imply that the striped ball was used in all ’73 games, both day and night.

[quote comment=”238461″][quote comment=”238455″][quote comment=”238438″][quote comment=”238428″]Someone needs to start a petition to New Era to get rid of the ridiculous striping on those hats, if it werent for those freakin stripes I would be out buying my KC Royals BP hat.[/quote]

I don’t care for these caps either, but like the sharpei, someone in the world does.

Furthermore, that same person who likes the sharpei will buy said sharpei and all of it’s accessories.

So to petition the breeder or the pet store would provide us with an avenue to voice our displeasure however with the looks of the dog, more than likely, our pleas would fall upon deaf ears.

If we don’t like that breed, there are more than enough other types for us to prefer and own.

All kidding side, those hats are horrendous and this is UniWatch, so complain away.[/quote]
I thought maybe you were talking about this Sharpay. Sorry, I have young kids so my view of the world is a little warped[/quote]

Because of my two I have used that word and not meant the actress!

lwiedy|
March 13, 2008 at 11:47 am |

[quote comment=”238478″][quote comment=”238409″][quote comment=”238393″]Well, I’m confused. This SI Cover from December 1973 depicts a Chiefs-Raiders game. No stripes on ball.[/quote]

That’s because it’s a day game[/quote]

Yeah, but the USA Today article linked above seems to imply that the striped ball was used in all ’73 games, both day and night.[/quote]

[quote comment=”238481″][quote comment=”238461″][quote comment=”238455″][quote comment=”238438″][quote comment=”238428″]Someone needs to start a petition to New Era to get rid of the ridiculous striping on those hats, if it werent for those freakin stripes I would be out buying my KC Royals BP hat.[/quote]

I don’t care for these caps either, but like the sharpei, someone in the world does.

Furthermore, that same person who likes the sharpei will buy said sharpei and all of it’s accessories.

So to petition the breeder or the pet store would provide us with an avenue to voice our displeasure however with the looks of the dog, more than likely, our pleas would fall upon deaf ears.

If we don’t like that breed, there are more than enough other types for us to prefer and own.

All kidding side, those hats are horrendous and this is UniWatch, so complain away.[/quote]
I thought maybe you were talking about this Sharpay. Sorry, I have young kids so my view of the world is a little warped[/quote]

Because of my two daughters, this is probably the first time in two years that I have used that word and not meant the actress![/quote]

[quote comment=”238465″]The Washington Capitals game was broadcast on two channels in the Washington area. One carried the regular game broadcast, while the other had a split screen with the regular game coverage on one side and a dedicated camera continuously following Ovechkin on the other. The feature was dubbed OvechKam. ”I don’t think about OvechKam,” Ovechkin said. ”For me it doesn’t matter, OvechKam or different camera.”

RIDICULOUS![/quote]

Comcast SportsNet has been calling their in-game Ovechkin highlights the “OvechKam” from pretty early on in Ovie’s NHL career.

Pretty sure it’s been done before with other players.

JeffM|
March 13, 2008 at 12:19 pm |

[quote comment=”238353″]I was looking through the Kansas baseball gallery, and noticed the Jayhawk in this pic is wearing his stirrups, but no sanitaries (or anything else) underneath them.[/quote]

It seems that his sanitary sock might have just gotten dirty…i mean who would wear stirups sans sanitary sock

Robert|
March 13, 2008 at 12:21 pm |

Though I still do not endorse base coaches being compelled to wear helmets, I am now officially on board with their use since most of them are wearing the flapless version.

I have long missed the flapless helmets, as they look just so freakin’ cool compared to the flapped type. Anyone who collected the cheapy souvenir versions as a kid in the ’70s can no doubt relate.

Jason Gomez|
March 13, 2008 at 12:24 pm |

[quote comment=”238447″]The Royals also modified their BP caps. This was missed in the ESPN posting. The Royals are also back to wearing blue belts and shoes.[/quote]

They complained last year about the silver in that BP hat and thats when it was announced about the belt and shoes…thank god

LI Phil|
March 13, 2008 at 12:30 pm |

[quote comment=”238495″]I was looking through the Kansas baseball gallery, and noticed the Jayhawk in this pic is wearing his stirrups, but no sanitaries (or anything else) underneath them.[/quote]

perhaps im not looking at the same pic…but he is CLEARLY wearing a white sani on his left leg…can’t really tell about the right one because the stirrup is low and the cleat tongue/lace guard is covering where the stirrup would end…but it’s pretty apparent he’s wearing sani’s on the left leg

Will|
March 13, 2008 at 12:32 pm |

Totally off-topic: Jack Sikma has a captain’s C on his jersey. This is really rare in basketball. I’ve no idea how many other players have had a C in basketball. Anyone know?

LI Phil|
March 13, 2008 at 12:37 pm |

[quote comment=”238504″]Totally off-topic: Jack Sikma has a captain’s C on his jersey. This is really rare in basketball. I’ve no idea how many other players have had a C in basketball. Anyone know?[/quote]

go to paragraph 8 here…its not a complete list, but it delves into the subject

lwiedy|
March 13, 2008 at 12:43 pm |

[quote comment=”238503″][quote comment=”238495″]I was looking through the Kansas baseball gallery, and noticed the Jayhawk in this pic is wearing his stirrups, but no sanitaries (or anything else) underneath them.[/quote]

perhaps im not looking at the same pic…but he is CLEARLY wearing a white sani on his left leg…can’t really tell about the right one because the stirrup is low and the cleat tongue/lace guard is covering where the stirrup would end…but it’s pretty apparent he’s wearing sani’s on the left leg[/quote]

I thought the same thing, Phil, but thought I wasn’t seeing it right. I’m for striped stirrups as much as anyone, but those are just a little too much like my standard issue Little League ones.

Mike|
March 13, 2008 at 12:44 pm |

Billy Crystal struck out on a 3-2 pitch as the Yankees’ leadoff batter and designated hitter in an exhibition game against the Pittsburgh Pirates today.

dilbert719|
March 13, 2008 at 12:47 pm |

Paul, as kind of noted by Ben, the name of the new Giants CF is Rowand, not Rowland.

Ryan Burns|
March 13, 2008 at 12:48 pm |

I saw this (and others) in the paper the other day. How does the Hanes Hosiery team not have better socks?

Jameson Sutton of Boulder, Colo., shows the ball that was hit by Barry Bonds for his record-setting 762nd home run on Sept. 5, 2007, in Coors Field in Denver, during a news conference to announce that the ball is up for auction on Thursday, March 13, 2008, in Denver. Sutton, 24, has enlisted the services of SCP Auctions to put the ball up for an online auction starting on March 31 and running through April 12, 2008. Auction officials predict that the selling price of the ball, which was the last home run hit by Bonds, could approach $1 million.

[quote comment=”238490″]Anyone see the System Of Dress unis that Georgetown is wearing?

Just brutal.

About 3 different shades of gray/silver within an inch of eachother.

Front of the jersey: light gray
SOD back shoulder stripe: Aluminum foil-esque
Back of jersey: dark gray.[/quote]
I never noticed it before but Patrick Ewing, Jr. wears “EWING JR.” on the back of his jersey. I hate when guys do that. He is Patrick, Jr. – not Ewing, Jr.

Mets/Jets Fan in Chicagoland|
March 13, 2008 at 1:06 pm |

[quote comment=”238427″]I CAN HAS IMPAKT FONT? KTHX.[/quote]

Our leader in the clubhouse for Post of the Day.

I can has cheezburger?

Marty Met|
March 13, 2008 at 1:07 pm |

[quote comment=”238495″][quote comment=”238353″]I was looking through the Kansas baseball gallery, and noticed the Jayhawk in this pic is wearing his stirrups, but no sanitaries (or anything else) underneath them.[/quote]

It seems that his sanitary sock might have just gotten dirty…i mean who would wear stirups sans sanitary sock[/quote]

never the less… Trajan sucks!

Flip|
March 13, 2008 at 1:11 pm |

[quote comment=”238417″][quote comment=”238353″]I was looking through the Kansas baseball gallery, and noticed the Jayhawk in this pic is wearing his stirrups, but no sanitaries (or anything else) underneath them.[/quote]

Perhaps, dirt from the infield is obscuring the white sanitary.

Looks like Tabor (a small Mennonite school from Hillsboro, Kan.) has taken the curlique lettering Kansas used to be known for before it switched to its controversial Trajan.

By the way, apart from the caps and stirrups of Kansas, I don’t like the jerseys at all.

[quote comment=”238524″][quote comment=”238495″][quote comment=”238353″]I was looking through the Kansas baseball gallery, and noticed the Jayhawk in this pic is wearing his stirrups, but no sanitaries (or anything else) underneath them.[/quote]

It seems that his sanitary sock might have just gotten dirty…i mean who would wear stirups sans sanitary sock[/quote]

never the less… Trajan sucks![/quote]
So that’s what happened to all the old Expos hats!

Alan #44|
March 13, 2008 at 1:17 pm |

[quote comment=”238512″]Billy Crystal struck out on a 3-2 pitch as the Yankees’ leadoff batter and designated hitter in an exhibition game against the Pittsburgh Pirates today.[/quote]
I was hoping he would be smart enough to wear stirrups.

Dwight|
March 13, 2008 at 1:17 pm |

[quote comment=”238525″][quote comment=”238417″][quote comment=”238353″]I was looking through the Kansas baseball gallery, and noticed the Jayhawk in this pic is wearing his stirrups, but no sanitaries (or anything else) underneath them.[/quote]

Perhaps, dirt from the infield is obscuring the white sanitary.

Looks like Tabor (a small Mennonite school from Hillsboro, Kan.) has taken the curlique lettering Kansas used to be known for before it switched to its controversial Trajan.

By the way, apart from the caps and stirrups of Kansas, I don’t like the jerseys at all.

I don’t care how nice the uni is – no white shoes should ever be allowed in baseball under any circumstances.

Alan #44|
March 13, 2008 at 1:18 pm |

[quote comment=”238512″]Billy Crystal struck out on a 3-2 pitch as the Yankees’ leadoff batter and designated hitter in an exhibition game against the Pittsburgh Pirates today.[/quote]
I was hoping he would be smart enough to wear stirrups. Oh,well.

MAO|
March 13, 2008 at 1:25 pm |

Check out this Phillies jacket on the Deadspin Phils season preview this afternoon.

straw|
March 13, 2008 at 1:32 pm |

I thought these number fonts looked familiar. What do you think. Here and Here.

Jeff Scott|
March 13, 2008 at 1:35 pm |

[quote comment=”238459″]From Paul’s ESPN column:
“In what may be a first, the Pirates are wearing a spring training sleeve patch commemorating the 40th anniversary of their Florida facility.”

It may be a second. The 1988 Dodgers had a patch for 40 years in Vero Beach. I have a great photo but this post will not go through with links. Anyone know why?[/quote]

The Cardinals have worn spring patches three different times: 1988 (50 years in St. Petersburg); 1997 (Final season in St. Pete); and 1998 (First season in Jupiter).

lwiedy|
March 13, 2008 at 1:48 pm |

[quote comment=”238536″][quote comment=”238459″]From Paul’s ESPN column:
“In what may be a first, the Pirates are wearing a spring training sleeve patch commemorating the 40th anniversary of their Florida facility.”

It may be a second. The 1988 Dodgers had a patch for 40 years in Vero Beach. I have a great photo but this post will not go through with links. Anyone know why?[/quote]

The Cardinals have worn spring patches three different times: 1988 (50 years in St. Petersburg); 1997 (Final season in St. Pete); and 1998 (First season in Jupiter).[/quote]

But of course! If I can find the 1988 patch in a box somewhere in this house, I will die a happy man.

lwiedy|
March 13, 2008 at 1:58 pm |

[quote comment=”238540″][quote comment=”238536″][quote comment=”238459″]From Paul’s ESPN column:
“In what may be a first, the Pirates are wearing a spring training sleeve patch commemorating the 40th anniversary of their Florida facility.”

It may be a second. The 1988 Dodgers had a patch for 40 years in Vero Beach. I have a great photo but this post will not go through with links. Anyone know why?[/quote]

The Cardinals have worn spring patches three different times: 1988 (50 years in St. Petersburg); 1997 (Final season in St. Pete); and 1998 (First season in Jupiter).[/quote]

But of course! If I can find the 1988 patch in a box somewhere in this house, I will die a happy man.[/quote]

In the WVU vs. UCONN Big East men’s bball tourney game, Alex Ruoff had a huge hole in the back of his jersey and had to put on a different jersey (different number). The announcers were circling it and cracking several uniform malfunction jokes.

Mark MihaIik|
March 13, 2008 at 3:15 pm |

[quote comment=”238528″][quote comment=”238512″]Billy Crystal struck out on a 3-2 pitch as the Yankees’ leadoff batter and designated hitter in an exhibition game against the Pittsburgh Pirates today.[/quote]
I was hoping he would be smart enough to wear stirrups.[/quote]

Looks like those state-outlined helmets will be in storage for @ least a year:ATLANTA — The new All American Football League has scrapped plans for its 2008 inaugural season and will continue to search for financial backing for 2009.

Kennan Davis, the AAFL’s vice president of league operations, said sponsors have commitments to remain with the league in 2009.

The league’s decision to postpone its 2008 season was first reported by KRIV-TV in Houston.

The league’s chief executive officer, Marcus Katz, said economic conditions forced the decision to scrap plans for this year.

Chad G|
March 13, 2008 at 3:26 pm |

[quote comment=”238561″][quote comment=”238556″][quote comment=”238552″]In what may be a fifth, the Pirates are wearing a spring training sleeve patch commemorating the 40th anniversary of their Florida facility.[/quote]

Sorry to be that guy KT, but that is what brought up this entire discussion[/quote]

Sorry to be that guy, but if you look at the sixth word in my post, you’ll see that you’re not that guy, you are, in fact, this guy.[/quote]

Umm, the word fifth? I have no idea what you are trying to get at, but the entire discussion started because of paul’s reference to the pirates sleeve patch in his ESPN article

Chad G|
March 13, 2008 at 3:33 pm |

[quote comment=”238591″][quote comment=”238561″][quote comment=”238556″][quote comment=”238552″]In what may be a fifth, the Pirates are wearing a spring training sleeve patch commemorating the 40th anniversary of their Florida facility.[/quote]

Sorry to be that guy KT, but that is what brought up this entire discussion[/quote]

Sorry to be that guy, but if you look at the sixth word in my post, you’ll see that you’re not that guy, you are, in fact, this guy.[/quote]

Umm, the word fifth? I have no idea what you are trying to get at, but the entire discussion started because of paul’s reference to the pirates sleeve patch in his ESPN article[/quote]

P.S. if you trying to say that the Pirates patch previously mentioned was the fifth of this type of patch, you worded your statement in an entirely wack way by restating that the pirates are wearing the patch, as if it were breaking news

Austin B|
March 13, 2008 at 3:49 pm |

How bout those ASU mens basketball unis?
i think theyre the best in the NCAA.
What do u think?

KT|
March 13, 2008 at 3:53 pm |

I guess that [quote comment=”238591″][quote comment=”238561″][quote comment=”238556″][quote comment=”238552″]In what may be a fifth, the Pirates are wearing a spring training sleeve patch commemorating the 40th anniversary of their Florida facility.[/quote]

Sorry to be that guy KT, but that is what brought up this entire discussion[/quote]

Sorry to be that guy, but if you look at the sixth word in my post, you’ll see that you’re not that guy, you are, in fact, this guy.[/quote]

Umm, the word fifth? I have no idea what you are trying to get at, but the entire discussion started because of paul’s reference to the pirates sleeve patch in his ESPN article[/quote]

Jesucristo, I said before that subtlety is lost on you frigging people.

One more time, slowly:

Original news item, from Paul’s ESPN column:“In what may be a first, the Pirates are wearing a spring training sleeve patch commemorating the 40th anniversary of their Florida facility.”

To which lwiedy repled:

“It may be a second. The 1988 Dodgers had a patch for 40 years in Vero Beach. I have a great photo but this post will not go through with links. Anyone know why?”

Jeff Scott then said:

“The Cardinals have worn spring patches three different times: 1988 (50 years in St. Petersburg); 1997 (Final season in St. Pete); and 1998 (First season in Jupiter).”

So….if the Cardinals have worn spring patches three times, and the Dodgers another time, that’s four times. Meaning the Pirates’ use would be…the fifth time.

Which is why I wrote “In what may be a fifth….” (Fifth being the sixth word in my post.)

It wasn’t my statement. It was Paul’s statement, just edited. And grammatically incorrect for comedic effect.

Make sense now?

DUCKstyle|
March 13, 2008 at 3:57 pm |

[quote comment=”238599″]I guess that [quote comment=”238591″][quote comment=”238561″][quote comment=”238556″][quote comment=”238552″]In what may be a fifth, the Pirates are wearing a spring training sleeve patch commemorating the 40th anniversary of their Florida facility.[/quote]

Sorry to be that guy KT, but that is what brought up this entire discussion[/quote]

Sorry to be that guy, but if you look at the sixth word in my post, you’ll see that you’re not that guy, you are, in fact, this guy.[/quote]

Umm, the word fifth? I have no idea what you are trying to get at, but the entire discussion started because of paul’s reference to the pirates sleeve patch in his ESPN article[/quote]

Jesucristo, I said before that subtlety is lost on you frigging people.

One more time, slowly:

Original news item, from Paul’s ESPN column:“In what may be a first, the Pirates are wearing a spring training sleeve patch commemorating the 40th anniversary of their Florida facility.”

To which lwiedy repled:

“It may be a second. The 1988 Dodgers had a patch for 40 years in Vero Beach. I have a great photo but this post will not go through with links. Anyone know why?”

Jeff Scott then said:

“The Cardinals have worn spring patches three different times: 1988 (50 years in St. Petersburg); 1997 (Final season in St. Pete); and 1998 (First season in Jupiter).”

So….if the Cardinals have worn spring patches three times, and the Dodgers another time, that’s four times. Meaning the Pirates’ use would be…the fifth time.

Which is why I wrote “In what may be a fifth….” (Fifth being the sixth word in my post.)

It wasn’t my statement. It was Paul’s statement, just edited. And grammatically incorrect for comedic effect.

[quote comment=”238599″]I guess that [quote comment=”238591″][quote comment=”238561″][quote comment=”238556″][quote comment=”238552″]In what may be a fifth, the Pirates are wearing a spring training sleeve patch commemorating the 40th anniversary of their Florida facility.[/quote]

Sorry to be that guy KT, but that is what brought up this entire discussion[/quote]

Sorry to be that guy, but if you look at the sixth word in my post, you’ll see that you’re not that guy, you are, in fact, this guy.[/quote]

Umm, the word fifth? I have no idea what you are trying to get at, but the entire discussion started because of paul’s reference to the pirates sleeve patch in his ESPN article[/quote]

Jesucristo, I said before that subtlety is lost on you frigging people.

One more time, slowly:

Original news item, from Paul’s ESPN column:“In what may be a first, the Pirates are wearing a spring training sleeve patch commemorating the 40th anniversary of their Florida facility.”

To which lwiedy repled:

“It may be a second. The 1988 Dodgers had a patch for 40 years in Vero Beach. I have a great photo but this post will not go through with links. Anyone know why?”

Jeff Scott then said:

“The Cardinals have worn spring patches three different times: 1988 (50 years in St. Petersburg); 1997 (Final season in St. Pete); and 1998 (First season in Jupiter).”

So….if the Cardinals have worn spring patches three times, and the Dodgers another time, that’s four times. Meaning the Pirates’ use would be…the fifth time.

Which is why I wrote “In what may be a fifth….” (Fifth being the sixth word in my post.)

It wasn’t my statement. It was Paul’s statement, just edited. And grammatically incorrect for comedic effect.

[quote comment=”238585″][quote comment=”238459″]
It may be a second. The 1988 Dodgers had a patch for 40 years in Vero Beach. I have a great photo but this post will not go through with links. Anyone know why?[/quote]

Did the Dodgers also don a patch in 1998 during the 50th year in Vero Beach? I’d bet so.[/quote]
Then it seems odd they wouldn’t have a patch this year, their last year in Vero Beach (and, I guess, also their 60th year there). The LA 50th anniversary patch could’ve waited ’til they arrived in LA for the season.

LI Phil|
March 13, 2008 at 4:52 pm |

[quote comment=”238598″]How bout those ASU mens basketball unis?
i think theyre the best in the NCAA.
What do u think?[/quote]

dont know if its been menioted but novas jerseys have two colors around the neck. very weird

Stuby|
March 13, 2008 at 5:54 pm |

[quote comment=”238623″]dont know if its been menioted but novas jerseys have two colors around the neck. very weird[/quote]
You can also see the weird fabric pattern on Villanova’s shorts/pants/breezers in that shot.

Dane|
March 13, 2008 at 6:16 pm |

I’m watching the coverage of the Lake Erie Monsters game from Mar 8 – when they wore the tie-dye jerseys.

1. Well, everyone except the goalie. While the skaters were in tie-dye blue, the goalie was in solid maroon.

2. The color commentator was incoherently babbling something about a set of jerseys that the Monsters wore against Utah, in which the dye bled off the fabric onto Utah’s white jerseys. Apparently, the Lake Erie front office received a cleaning bill after the game.

3. The penalty box official is wearing a name tag with the Quicken logo. (The Monsters share the Quicken Loans arena with the Cleveland Cavaliers.) A name tag! Would you like fries with your double minor for high sticking?

Dom|
March 13, 2008 at 6:19 pm |

The Rays players are now getting fined $1 for every time they say Devil Rays instead.

[quote comment=”238490″]Anyone see the System Of Dress unis that Georgetown is wearing?

Just brutal.

About 3 different shades of gray/silver within an inch of eachother.

Front of the jersey: light gray
SOD back shoulder stripe: Aluminum foil-esque
Back of jersey: dark gray.[/quote]
WRONG!
The SOD uniforms are a huge improvement. The different shades of gray look great. Also like the navy trim around the neck and arms.

LI Phil|
March 13, 2008 at 7:18 pm |

is this a foul?…also…it appears as though quiarol arzu (#2 of Honduras) is losing whatever patch he has on his right bicep

Jim|
March 13, 2008 at 7:48 pm |

What was the font named Kansas previously wore before Trajan?

I have been told that Nike referred to it internally as “Circus”. No idea if that’s the real name.

I was a student at Kansas when Larry Brown brought in the proto-Circus in the 80s. Hated it then, and I hated Roy Williams’ version even more, so I’m glad to see that “Olde West” piece of garbage go away.

Trajan is boring, but at least our uniforms don’t evoke Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show anymore. That’s an East Coast stereotype of Kansas that I’m well beyond tired of.

LI Phil|
March 13, 2008 at 7:50 pm |

jeebus…here’s another pic of the honduras/cuba game…and another player (jose cesar guity #18) has his patch half-off…and this guy (daniel alvarez #17) has LOST his patch

[quote comment=”238638″][quote comment=”238623″]dont know if its been menioted but novas jerseys have two colors around the neck. very weird[/quote]
You can also see the weird fabric pattern on Villanova’s shorts/pants/breezers in that shot.[/quote]

Florida State has that same “embossed” pattern on their new “feather” shorts this season.

Neither said what was exchanged, but there was a fancy wrapped Sony bag in Ransom’s locker.

Ransom switched to number 67 for the game, and fittingly, homered.[/quote]

He has to keep 67 now!

The Gamecock|
March 13, 2008 at 8:40 pm |

On that wonderful photo of the 1909 Browns, I noticed the players in sweaters are wearing the home cap with the away uniform while the players (coaches?) without sweaters are wearing the enture road ensemble. See for yourself here. Wonder if they were trying to pull a fast one on the team photo.

Benjamin Bonnet|
March 13, 2008 at 8:40 pm |

My brother reported that Jose Theodore has been wearing a Rockies turtleneck underneath his sweater. Can anyone get a screengrab?

i think i’ve done a 180 on this one…i did a bunch of researching, and i’ve come to the conclusion that the base coaches and pitchers should all wear additional protection…perhaps this for coaches, and this for hurlers

[quote comment=”238525″][quote comment=”238417″][quote comment=”238353″]I was looking through the Kansas baseball gallery, and noticed the Jayhawk in this pic is wearing his stirrups, but no sanitaries (or anything else) underneath them.[/quote]

Perhaps, dirt from the infield is obscuring the white sanitary.

Looks like Tabor (a small Mennonite school from Hillsboro, Kan.) has taken the curlique lettering Kansas used to be known for before it switched to its controversial Trajan.

By the way, apart from the caps and stirrups of Kansas, I don’t like the jerseys at all.

[quote comment=”238874″]Did Billy Crystal wear uniform #60 because that is how old he will be?[/quote]

Yes

Steve|
March 14, 2008 at 10:47 am |

Paul couldn’t even post a picture and just let us comment today? Geeze I guess I’ll actually have to do some actual work then!

spencer|
March 14, 2008 at 11:09 am |

we out smarted you brian.

spencer|
March 14, 2008 at 11:09 am |

we out smarted you brian.

spencer|
March 14, 2008 at 11:11 am |

by brian i mean paul.

spencer|
March 14, 2008 at 11:11 am |

by brian i mean paul.

Papke|
March 14, 2008 at 12:33 pm |

[quote comment=”238495″][quote comment=”238353″]I was looking through the Kansas baseball gallery, and noticed the Jayhawk in this pic is wearing his stirrups, but no sanitaries (or anything else) underneath them.[/quote]

It seems that his sanitary sock might have just gotten dirty…i mean who would wear stirups sans sanitary sock[/quote]
Some one from ku thats who

Stuby|
March 14, 2008 at 1:03 pm |

[quote comment=”238961″][quote comment=”238495″][quote comment=”238353″]I was looking through the Kansas baseball gallery, and noticed the Jayhawk in this pic is wearing his stirrups, but no sanitaries (or anything else) underneath them.[/quote]

It seems that his sanitary sock might have just gotten dirty…i mean who would wear stirups sans sanitary sock[/quote]
Some one from ku thats who[/quote]
Doesn’t seem so sanitary, does it?

seriously, was it that difficult to figure out that in this situation, you automatically just start posting at the end of the previous days post? thats the only way the discucssion will continure.

Donald Massenburg|
March 16, 2008 at 3:07 am |

I must say I like the bold, classic font of the Civil Rights Uniforms. The Cardinals uniform was best as the “StL” look was bold, informative, and uncluttered. While surely the Cleveland uniform was a tad plain, there’s nothing wrong with “classic”. A cream-colored NY Mets uniform is intriguing…

Kory|
March 16, 2008 at 7:39 pm |

Check out the Florida picture (referring to the numbers on the practice jerseys). Do you have to have a V-shaped hairline to coach at Florida or do you think they cut your hair like that after you’re hired?